Following a tumultuous downpour on Wednesday night, the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Suleja, Niger State, bore the brunt of nature’s fury, leading to extensive damage and the escape of 118 inmates.
In a statement released by Adamu Duza, the spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service, the catastrophic effects of the downpour were outlined. Duza highlighted the severe damage inflicted on the custodial centre’s infrastructure, including breaches in the perimeter fence that facilitated the inmates’ escape.
Responding swiftly, the NCoS activated recapturing protocols, collaborating with other security agencies to apprehend the fleeing inmates. While 10 have been recaptured, efforts to apprehend the remaining escapees are ongoing.
Acknowledging the vulnerability of aging facilities, Duza affirmed the NCoS’s commitment to modernizing its infrastructure, recognizing the imperative for improved security measures.
Controller of Corrections, FCT Command, Francis John, assured the public of the situation’s management and urged them to continue with their daily activities without fear.
As the authorities grapple with the aftermath, vigilance is urged, with the public encouraged to report any suspicious activities or sightings of escaped inmates to the nearest security agency.
In parallel, concerns over prison overcrowding in Nigeria have been underscored by the United States, as revealed in its ‘2023 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: Nigeria.’ The report highlighted a systemic issue of prisons operating beyond intended capacity, with aging facilities struggling to meet basic standards of living.
